Thursday, August 5, 2010

Are There Cures For Down Syndrome? By Kate Allen

For every disease, we expect to find a corresponding cure and treatment. However, even with the advantage of advanced technology, cure is still not available for many diseases. The cures for Down syndrome are an example of that. Down syndrome, also known as trisomy 21 is a disorder of the chromosome which is caused by the existence of an extra 21st chromosome. This syndrome is named after John Langdon Down who first described this condition back in 1866. In this syndrome, there are abnormalities in the physical and mental structures of a person. A Down syndrome baby or child will look different than a normal kid. Most people who have Down syndrome share the same physical traits:

-They usually have upward slanting eyes.
-The shape of their face is usually rounded.
-Their noses are small and flat
-They have shorter limbs.
-The gap between their big and second toe are usually big.
-They have small mouth with protruding tongue.

The mental developments of these people are also slow, making them susceptible to learning disabilities. They are also at risk of more serious diseases such as congenital heart disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, chronic ear infections, sleep apnea and thyroid dysfunctions (which can cause obesity for people with Down syndrome). The reason why there is an abnormality of Chromosome # 21 is still unknown. This is why parents are advised to go for genetic counseling first before deciding to have a baby so that they can reduce the risk of having a Down syndrome baby. Cures for Down syndrome are not found yet.

The only thing we can do to help these people is to reduce the possibility of further complications in their body and to give them the love and support that they deserve. We can help their mental, emotional and social development. In the mental aspect, herbal remedies might help. Studies were conducted and there were positive results in the cognitive performance of children with Down syndrome when they use herbs such as Bacopa Monnieri, Mandukparni, Shankhpushpi, Vacha, Jyotishmati and other Indian herbs. The herbs Tulsi, and Asparagus racemosus can also help in warding off infectious diseases.

A person who has Down syndrome is more prone to viral illnesses. Amalaki is also used to reduce the risk of congenital heart disease. Tapyadi-Loh and Kaishor-Guggulu, on the other hand, can help correct their hearing and vision problems. You can also reduce the erratic behavioral changes of a person with Down syndrome by using a product called MindSoothe. MindSoothe is another herbal remedy that can help balance the mood of a person and can promote happy and peaceful feelings. To help the behavioral symptoms of a person with Down syndrome, this is the right product for them.

It contains the essential herbs St. John's Wort and Passion Flower, which are both beneficial in balancing behavior and soothing nerves and promoting equilibrium in the over all mental condition of a person with Down syndrome. These herbs, although not the cures for Down syndrome, can help in preventing further complications from developing. No matter how minute the help is, the important thing is we are able to help them. In this way, you can reach out to them and let them know that they deserve to live a normal and happy life.

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Friday, July 30, 2010

Down Syndrome is Not a Death Sentence By Nikki Spencer

Your baby has just been diagnosed in utero with having Down syndrome, and you are scared. Scared because everything you remember about Down syndrome as a kid wasn't pretty. Scared because of what your Doctor or Geneticist is telling you. Scared because of all you've read online, most of it negative, bad, and fatalistic.

Much of what is on the web today is outdated and inaccurate. Let's start dispelling these falsehoods right away.

"People with Down syndrome suffer." Nothing could be further from the truth. People with Down syndrome don't feel pain any more than anyone else. They have the same capacity as anyone to be happy; perhaps even more so. They generally have a high self-esteem, they achieve to the best of their ability; they are educable. They love and are loved. They go to college, work meaningful jobs, drive cars, marry, entertain, and teach us. They do not suffer.

"A person with Down syndrome won't walk, talk, or read." Again, not true. Some may have more difficulty than others with these skills, but the vast majority does these things and does them well.

"Down syndrome is a dreadful disorder." Total speculation and absolute opinion. Most parents of a child with Down syndrome would disagree wholeheartedly.

"Down syndrome people are stupid and stop learning around 5th grade." People with Down syndrome are not stupid. They are intellectually disabled, or mentally retarded. "Retarded" is defined as "slow or to go slowly". It may take longer for them to learn something, but learn they do. Some people with Down syndrome may find certain concepts difficult to grasp. Learning is a lifelong process. Many people with Down syndrome go to college. Could a 5th grader do that?

It is true that people with Down syndrome have more challenges concerning health and life skills, but this does not mean their lives are not pleasant and not worth living. Some Down syndrome symptoms to be aware of include congenital heart defects (usually repairable through surgery), congenital gastro-intestinal defects (also surgically repairable), hypotonia or low-muscle tone, speech difficulties, thyroid issues, dental problems, and musculoskeletal problems.

It's important to note that while there are many symptoms of Down syndrome, one person doesn't exhibit all of the symptoms. One child may have a heart defect, have hypotonia, and need shoe orthotics for foot support. Another child may be born with Hirschsprung's disease, need extra help with speech, and be delayed in walking until age four. Yet a third child may have perfect heart and bowels but need glasses and hearing aids. Every child is different.

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Sunday, July 25, 2010

Everything About Down Syndrome By George Key

The people who suffer from Down syndrome have average to low cognitive abilities and the chances of Down syndrome are 1 to 1000 births. Also this ratio greatly depends upon the age of the mother and many other factors. many of the symptoms of down syndrome may also be found in normal people such as poor muscle growth, ear infections, obstructive sleep, thyroid dysfunctions etc. It is advised that as soon as this syndrome is detected in children they should be treated in a conducive family environment and vocational training should be provided to them for their development. All of the symptoms of Down syndrome can not be overcome but with proper care and education, the life of the people affected from syndrome can be greatly improved.

Characteristics of Down syndrome:

People suffering from Down syndrome may have some of the following physical characteristics:

o Oblique eye fissures

o Muscle hypotonia

o Flat nasal bridge

o Single plamar fold

o Short neck

o White spots on the iris

o Congenital heart defects

o Single Flexion furrow of the fifth finger

o Higher number of ilnar loop dermatoglyphs

Some mental characteristics include:

o Mental retardation

o Low IQ due to above factor

These are just some of symptoms of the Down syndrome. Their are many other symptoms of this dreadful disorder.

Health of people:

The people suffering from this syndrome can experience any organ or organ system failure at any time. This type of syndrome can result from many genetic disorders. This results in wide variety of symptoms and even wider variety of problems and complications in the individuals. Prior to birth it can be tested and found out that the individual which will develop will have Down syndrome while some symptoms are clearly visible after the birth like heart malfunctions others come to light in the later years.

A survey conducted in United States showed that the life acceptancy of such people is around 49 years up from 25 years in 1980.The life expectancy also depends on many factors like the social environment of the individual as well as the family environment. Fertility is drastically reduced with males suffering the worst. Only 3 instances of a male suffering from Down syndrome becoming a father have been recorded.

People who support such people advise that such people should be given special guidance as well as education as well as a home environment which is suitable and caring for them and then only thy develop their minds to live like a normal person. With special care and understanding the world can be made a better place to live in for individuals suffering from Down syndrome.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Key

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Do You Know What Causes Down Syndrome? By Mike Selvon

Down syndrome children are a lot of work. Parents will need a team of doctors, including a cardiologist, a gastroenterologist, a pediatrician and other specialists, like speech therapists. Babies with Down syndrome may have trouble learning to roll over, sit up, feed, walk or talk. However, the temperament of these children is often extremely loving, loyal and gentle, which is why some doctors say raising a child with Down syndrome can be a rewarding experience. What causes Down syndrome boils down to genetics, although there is no way to prevent it.

An error in cell division is what causes this chromosomal disorder, experts say. Typically, human cells have 46 chromosomes; half from the sperm and half from the egg. Occasionally, extra genetic material builds up on the 21st chromosome when cells divide improperly and chromosome 21 becomes a trio, rather than a standard pair. In fact, another name of Down syndrome is "Trisomy 21." The triple chromosome will then continue to replicate improperly in each growing cell.

Doctors found that what causes Down syndrome environmentally may be the parents' age. For example, a 25-year-old mother has a 1/3,000 chance of having a baby with Down syndrome. By age 35, her risk will have increased to 1/365 and by 45, it will be a 1/30 chance of having a baby with the genetic condition! The latest Down syndrome research suggests that older fathers are now responsible for the 50% rise in risk, when the mother is also over 40.

Even though the odds get worse as the parents age, 80% of these babies are born to women who are 35 or younger. However, that statistic can also be explained because younger women are having many more babies. Younger mothers who smoke and have a meiotic II error or who smoke and take oral contraceptives are at increased risk for having a Down child as well.

During pregnancy, there are several screening tests to examine what causes Down syndrome. Some people get blood tests like the quad screen, which reveals chromosomal disorders between the eleventh and fourteenth weeks of pregnancy. Doctors look for plasma protein-A and the human chorionic gonadotropin hormone.

This test is about 87% effective in making a Down syndrome diagnosis. Ultrasound is another method to check for abnormalities. While these tests may give parents peace of mind, they may also set off a false alarm. Even though 1/20 women test positive, most will go on to deliver healthy babies anyway.

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Monday, May 24, 2010

A Step Forward - Treadmill Training For Down Syndrome Infants By Travis Van Slooten

A study suggests that starting a Down syndrome infant on a treadmill for mere minutes a day can help them walk four to five months earlier as opposed to only receiving traditional physical therapy. Also, the study determined that an infant with Down syndrome may walk sooner if their treadmill walk is at a high intensity.

Infants that are typically developed learn to walk on their own at around 12 months, but Down syndrome infants have a significant delay. They usually walk on their own between 24 to 28 months.

Important to mental and physical growth, walking allows us to explore our environment. With infants, walking is critical because locomotive skills help them learn other skills such as social and motor skills and spatial cognition and perception.

The study had 30 infant participants. They were randomly assigned low intensity or high intensity treadmill training. The training was done at home with the infant's parents. During the study, the infants maintained their everyday physical treatment.

"Initially, all parents worked with their infants on the treadmill for eight minutes a day, five days a week. The parent sat on a bench that straddled the treadmill and held the infant as the child took steps on the treadmill," said Professor Dale Ulrich of the University of Michigan Division of Kinesiology and principal investigator on the treadmill training project.

The parents began their infant with low intensity training, but once the infant could take 10, 20 and 30 steps per minute, the intensity was increased for half of the infant participants. The high intensity participants experienced increased belt speed and duration time. Also light weights were added to the infant's ankles. The intensity level was specific to each child.

The study entitled, "The Effects of Intensity of Treadmill Training on Developmental Outcomes and Stepping in Infants with Down Syndrome" concluded that the infants that walked on the treadmill at higher intensity increased their stepping significantly. These participants also met most of the motor milestones at an earlier mean age.

These study results supported an earlier study on Down syndrome infants using a treadmill for walking advancement. With the study's results, there is hope that Down syndrome support organizations and hospitals may rent treadmills to parents who can't afford the equipment.

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Down Syndrome - Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment By Abdulmubeen Mundewadi

Down syndrome is the most common genetic disorder that causes severe learning disability in children. Children with Down syndrome have some distinctive features which include flattened facial features; a protruding tongue; a small head; upward slanting eyes; unusually shaped ears; broad, short, hands with relatively short fingers; and poor muscle tone causing excessive flexibility. Down syndrome is not inherited, but is caused by 3 types of genetic variations involving the 21st chromosome, which include the Trisomy 21, the Mosaic Down syndrome and the Translocation Down syndrome. Advancing maternal age and a family history are risk factors for this condition. Complications of this condition include heart defects, leukemia, a susceptibility to infectious diseases, dementia in later life, and other structural and functional problems in the body.

The Ayurvedic treatment of Down syndrome is aimed at improving physical and cognitive deficits, preventing complications and attempting to normalize life for the affected children, to the extent possible with medicines. Medicines like Trayo-Dashang-Guggulu, Panch-Tikta-Ghrut-Guggulu, Vish-Tinduk-Vati, Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Sunthi (Zinziber officinalis), Marich (Piper nigrum), Pippali (Piper longum), Yashtimadhuk (Glycerrhiza glabra), Nimba (Azadirachta indica), Patol (Tricosanthe dioica), Draksha (Vitis vinifera), Musta (Cyperus rotundus), Kuchla (Strychnos nuxvomica) and Indrayav (Holarrhina antidysentrica) can be used to improve muscle tone and co-ordination. Massage of the entire body using medicated oils like Mahanarayan oil, Mahamash oil and Mahasaindhav oil is also very helpful.

To improve cognitive performance and prevent dementia, medicines used are: Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Mandukparni (Centella asiatica), Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), Vacha (Acorus calamus), Jyotishmati (Celastrus panniculatus) and Kushmand (Benincasa hispida). In order to reduce susceptibility to infectious diseases, medicines used are: Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Pippali, Yashtimadhuk, Abhrak-Bhasma, Laghu-Malini-Vasant, Madhu-Malini-Vasant and Suvarna-Malini-Vasant. Medicines like Laxmi-Vilas-Ras, Shrung-Bhasma, Laxadi-Guggulu, Arjunarishta, Arjun (Terminalia Arjuna) and Amalaki can be used to reduce disability from heart defects. Medicines like Panch-Tikta-Ghrut-Guggulu, Laxadi-Guggulu, Suvarna-Bhasma and Heerak-Bhasma can be used to prevent or treat leukemia. In order to improve or correct hearing loss and poor vision, medicines like Tapyadi-Loh, Kaishor-Guggulu, Punarnavadi-Guggulu, Abhrak-Bhasma and Ekang-Veer-Ras can be used.

A judicious combination of Ayurvedic medicines can thus help to reduce physical and mental disability and dramatically increase the life span for people with Down syndrome. All such patients should be under the regular care and supervision of a team of physicians specializing in Down syndrome.

Friday, May 14, 2010

Children With Down Syndrome - Children With an Extra Copy of Chromosome 21 By Jared Wright

It is believed that around 5,000 of the babies born in the USA each year, have Down syndrome. The syndrome is named after Dr John Langdon Down who identified the syndrome in 1866. It is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21 in all the cells of the body.

The reason why it happens is unknown and it can occur in any family. There is no proof that is affects a specific race or sex more than the others. Mothers over 40 have a greater chance of having a baby with Down syndrome than younger mothers. Having one baby with Down syndrome doesn't mean it will affect all babies born after that, but the risk becomes higher.

Children with Down syndrome have specific physical features such as a round face and small chin. Many also have vision problems and tend to wear glasses. Growth is normally slowed down and they seldom grow very tall. Almond shaped eyes and an oversized tongue are other typical features. Because of the oversized tongues, speech can sometimes be difficult.

Their cognitive abilities are usually lower than those of other children and a small number are severely mentally disabled. These children are more prone to heart diseases, ear infections and thyroid problems than other children. Treating this at a young age is necessary to prevent further illnesses later in their lives.

Caring for a child with Down syndrome has its own challenges but parents of these children often report the special bond that they have with their children and wouldn't want it any other way. These children are loving and caring by nature. Unless there are other mental problems, they usually enjoy the company of people and should be exposed to that.

Children with Down syndrome will benefit from early childhood therapy such as speech and physical therapy. Life expectancy for people with Down syndrome, for many years, was around twenty to twenty five years. That has changed now and Down syndrome babies can, on average, have a life expectancy of fifty to sixty years.

These children can normally attend mainstream schools where extra assistance is available. They learn slower than other children, but many are educated enough to be able to have a regular job and a few even attend college.

These lovely children might have different and more challenges than many other children but with the appropriate care and love, can have full and happy lives.

Sunday, May 9, 2010

Just What is Downs Syndrome? By David Cowley

It's unfortunate that many people today just don't have the proper understanding of Downs Syndrome and what exactly this means. Some make wrong assumptions about those with this condition, their abilities, and their intelligence level. It's true that many with Downs Syndrome have typically lower than average cognitive abilities, but only a very small percentage of those with this condition are impaired enough to need constant supervision or to keep them from functioning on their own.

The actual condition itself is caused by a disorder of the chromosomes, with all or part of an extra twenty-first chromosome. There are some physical characteristics that are common among those with Downs Syndrome, including almond-shaped eyes caused by a fold in the eyelids. Some also have a particular type of crease on the hands, shorter limbs than average, poorer muscle tone than average, and a protruding tongue. Those with Downs Syndrome are often easy to spot because of these physical characteristics, but rarely do any of those with this condition have physical abnormalities that would keep him or her from functioning in normal circumstances. There is also an increased risk for heart defects, acid reflux disease, ear infection, sleep apnea, and often thyroid disease or disorders. Other than these conditions, those with Downs Syndrome rarely have any type of severe physical limitations or concerns.

This condition is different for everyone that has it in severity and limitations. However, most of those with Downs Syndrome are able to be integrated into public schools, sports, and the workplace. They may have certain limitations when it comes to their understanding of complex concepts but typically can handle money and a budget, manage their own apartment or home, and can also care for a baby when needed. The majority of those with this condition can care for themselves and their family as well as anyone else.

It's very shortsighted to assume that anyone with Downs Syndrome is severely disabled or unable to function or make decisions on his or her own. Again, this condition affects each patient differently, but the vast majority is just as functioning as anyone else.

Some years ago there was a very popular television series that revolved around a young man with Downs Syndrome, his family, and his schooling. They portrayed how successful he was in fitting in with other classmates, making decisions about his own activities, and even in running for class president. The TV series was very realistic about his limitations as well, but was an honest portrayal of what it's like to have this condition. Anyone with Downs Syndrome should be considered as capable and functioning as anyone else, and should be given every chance to succeed.

DO NOT GIVE CALCIUM SUPPLEMENTS. It is believed that large unused quantifies of calcium inn the downs syndrome fetus was a major contributing factor in causing the health related problems. Common Vitamins and over the counter products may help with Downs Syndrome.

Boron is known as the calcium helper and assists calcium absorption and utilization in the body.

Vitamin E promotes the natural body healing mechanism and oxygen to the heart and other muscles in the body. In addition it improves circulation.

Ginkgo is needed for the proper functioning of the vascular system and for improving blood circulation to the brain.

Vitamin B is known to help maintain the normal vasodilatation.

Amino Acid helps regulate growth, digestion and maintaining the body's immune system.

Oat Bran helps to regulate blood glucose levels, aids in lowering cholesterol, and helps in the removal of toxins.

Vitamin C is essential for defending the body against pollution and infections and enhances the immune system.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Learning About the Down Syndrome Disability By Mike Selvon

Down syndrome is the most common developmental disability in the US. A Down syndrome baby is noticeable by the small ears, small head, small eyes, slightly upturned nose, flat facial features and round head. They will require more time developing, learning to breast feed, rolling over, walking, talking and dressing themselves. However, parents of babies with Down syndrome often say, if given the choice, they wouldn't change a thing and that raising their unique child was one of the greatest things they could have done with their lives.

When learning about Down syndrome, you will discover there is a build-up of additional genetic material on the 21st chromosome. Doctors aren't 100% sure what causes this abnormality, but they do know that parental age increases the risk. Eighty percent of Down syndrome babies are born to parents under 35, which is probably because more people in that age bracket are having children.

Statistically speaking, a 25-year-old woman has a 1/3,000 chance of having a baby with Down syndrome, while a 35-year-old-woman has 1/365 odds of having a Down syndrome baby. By 45 years of age, her baby has a 1/30 chance of having downs! It is very rarely passed down genetically and it is estimated that only 3-4% of all downs cases are caused from inherited translocation of genetic material, while the rest appear to be caused by random, abnormal chromosomal activity.

There are some common medical conditions that people with this chromosomal disorder may face. Half of Down syndrome babies are born with heart defects and increased susceptibility to illnesses. Often, they are born with a hearing impairment or poor vision, and will likely encounter a speech impediment, sleep apnea or chronic ear infections later down the road. As a parent, you'll need to find a trusted, specialized, medical practitioner. You may find local resources through the National Down Syndrome Society at "Ndss".

A support net is waiting for you; one mouse-click away. You can meet with other parents who have already gone through raising a child with Down syndrome. You can learn coping and teaching techniques or find an inspirational book that fills your heart with joy. Your life will be forever changed when any baby enters your life and you find that love can help you overcome anything. By participating in one of the many local community programs, you'll find greater strength.

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Downs Syndrome Poses Obesity Risk By Phillip Longmire

Having a wife that works with life skill students I know there are all type of problems that arise with special needs students. Its sad because with students and or adults who have special needs will struggle with those needs their entire life, and now obesity seems to be just one more issue. I'm not sure there is an answer to this problem, but it seems that those who have Down's Syndrome posse obesity risk.

If your not sure what Downs Syndrome is, let me give you a working definition. It is a congenital disorder, caused by the presence of an extra 21st chromosome, in which the affected person has mild to moderate mental retardation, short stature, and a flattened facial profile. Also called trisomy

New research has shown that people who suffer from Down's Syndrome are more likely to become obese than those who do not have the condition.

Using families which had both children who had Down's Syndrome and brothers or sisters who did not, scientists were able to ensure that eating patterns offered by parents were very similar and that lifestyle choices and habits accrued as adults would not interfere with the study.

Monitoring 35 children with Down's Syndrome and 33 of their siblings who were free of the condition, researchers from The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that the Down's children had significantly higher body mass index and a higher percentage of body fat.

It was discovered that Down's Syndrome children had higher levels of leptin, a hormone linked to obesity, than their unaffected siblings. "The normal role of leptin is to suppress appetite and regulate body weight," explained senior author Dr Nicolas Stettler in the Jouranl of Paediatrics. "In general, obese people have higher levels of leptin, which suggests that they have some leptin resistance - their bodies do not respond to the hormone properly. Because Down's Syndrome is a chromosome disorder, children with Down's Syndrome may have a genetic predisposition to more severe leptin resistance."

Co-author Dr Sheela N Magge added: "Although the study had an advantage in including siblings as a control group, because this decreases the influence of different environments on children with or without Down's Syndrome, the sample size was limited, so larger studies are necessary. However, our findings may point to a useful approach to understanding why obesity often occurs in Down's Syndrome."

Around 60,000 people in the UK have Down's Syndrome and various charities have produced information for people with learning difficulties to advise them about making healthy eating choices which could help until more research is carried out.

I think as we advance in the fight against obesity and realize the effects it has, perhaps in the future this could be one less thing that people with special needs will have to battle. Because it seems in the earlier stages that people with Down's Syndrome poses obesity risk.

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Do You Understand a Child With Down Syndrome? By Mike Selvon

Cathy Morgan, a mother of a child with Down syndrome, recalls when she received the initial diagnosis of Down syndrome from the doctor: "Her message was 'Legally, you have 24 weeks to terminate the pregnancy and you should do it sooner rather than later because it will be more difficult on you if you wait,' and you're sort of taken aback."

She said that she was scared, nervous and disappointed at first but abortion was never an option for her. Now that she has three-year-old Eddie, she couldn't imagine life without him. Raising any child is not any easy job, whether they have 46 chromosomes or 47.

At home, your attitude is critical to your child's development. Here are some Down syndrome facts. While acceptance and social normalcy are a reality now more than ever, your child will still face hurdles with cruel children at school.

A Down child is also susceptible to depression, so your love and acceptance is very important. Many parents attend support group meetings through the National Down Syndrome Society to learn how to better care for their Down syndrome child and to address any negative emotions.

Patience is more than just a virtue here; it is an absolute necessity. While your child may learn to breast feed, roll over, walk and talk later than his or her peers, you will still find these achievements just as significant.

Set aside time each day to practice daily skills like getting dressed, using silverware or helping with chores. Being organized with a routine, as well as a system of lists, behavior contracts and rewards is the best way to encourage your child against the effects of Down syndrome.

As your child with Down syndrome gets older, grooming, hygiene and sexuality become very important issues. There are many books you can get that will help you explain these awkward topics to disabled children in ways they understand. Ensuring that your child attends school well-groomed and properly cared for will have a strong impact on how other adolescents perceive him or her, so this area cannot be ignored.

Boys must learn that erections are natural, and what to do when one arises. They must also learn that public masturbation is against the law, as well as socially unacceptable. Girls must learn about the changes their bodies go through as well and must understand how to use pads, as well as how to have respect for their bodies. Like any other teens, Down syndrome children will want to date, socialize and develop intimacy, so be sure to address these issues.

Know the health risks of your child with Down syndrome. Find a good medical practitioner who specializes in Down syndrome obstacles. Heart defects, visual impairments, hearing problems and difficulty breathing are all common ailments children with Down syndrome may face. Diet is also very important for the disabled. Be aware that obesity can be a problem, and that high-sugar/additives/preservatives may be upsetting.

Try a natural diet with alpha-ketoglutaric acid supplements. You may also need to limit dairy if your child is prone to ear infections. Additionally, a Down syndrome child may sleep poorly, with frequent awakenings and interrupted REM sleep. This could lead to more difficulty focusing and learning, research suggests. Discuss treatment options with your health care practitioner if you suspect this condition may be prevalent.

Monday, April 19, 2010

Achieving Your Full Potential Through Down Syndrome Awareness By Mike Selvon

The main goal of Down syndrome understanding is to celebrate the diversity of life and promote the acceptance of families and individuals with the condition. Lobbyists ensure that adults with Down syndrome have equal opportunity access to housing, schooling and jobs.

Organizations, like the National Down Syndrome Society, have helped people with Down syndrome fight for their legal rights and lobby for better educational programs. At its core, Down syndrome awareness is about enabling everyone to achieve his or her full potential, despite a disability.

The mission of the National Down Syndrome Society is "to benefit people with this disability and their families through national leadership in education, research and advocacy." They feel that everyone has the right to reach their potential and that people with such a disability should have the opportunity to make choices affecting their lives.

Part of Down syndrome knowledge is pushing for better educational programs to help children with Down syndrome achieve their goals. Through the organization, parents can collect valuable resources and connect with local support groups. Down syndrome children can link up with local programs sponsored in part by NDSS, where they can foster a love of art, music or sports and gain the necessary tools to live a relatively independent life.

In addition to Chris Burke, from "Life Goes On" and "Touched by an Angel," there are many other notable individuals with this disability who are ambassadors for Down Syndrome Awareness and serve as inspiration for Down syndrome children, adults and families. Actors include: Stephane Ginnsz (Duo), Max Lewis (Notes on a Scandal), Edward Barbanell (The Ringer) and award winner Paula Sage (AfterLife, BBC Scotland's River City soap).

Additionally, Joey Moss works as a locker room attendant for the Edmonton Oilers, Judith Scott works as an artist, Miguel Tomasin is the singer for the Argentinian rock band "Reynols" and Karen Gaffney works as a swimmer and motivational speaker. There are also people with such a disability who are children of famous people, like Isabella Pujols, the adopted daughter of the St. Louis Cardinal's first basemen, or Johnny Stallings, son of former University of Alabama football coach Gene Stallings.

Down Syndrome Awareness has brought great medical advances in just thirty short years. Every day doctors are learning more and more about how the condition works genetically, as therapists learn better techniques for teaching the developmentally disabled. Perhaps one day there will be a pre-natal treatment to remove the extra genetic material on chromosome 21, or perhaps children and adults with Down syndrome will just become more valued by society, thanks to organizations, methods of inclusion and awareness campaigns.

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

The History Behind Down Syndrome Genetics By Mike Selvon

One in 1,000 American babies is born with the Down syndrome genetic condition, although it is estimated that 90% of the mothers who receive an early diagnosis choose abortion. There are many fallacies about people with Down syndrome that scare parents into making a rash decision. Most adults with Down syndrome live independently, marry, have jobs and live past their fifties nowadays.

There are many ways the genetic data of Down syndrome can be damaged or rearranged. For example, in trisomy 21, one parent has two chromosomes located at chromosome #21, rather than one, causing the child to receive two chromosomes from one parent and one from the other parent for a total of three. The Down syndrome child will then have 47 chromosomes, instead of 46. This occurs in 90% of all Down syndrome cases.

With Mosaic syndrome disorder, chromosome 21 gets damaged during cell replication, where two normal chromosomes become three in some cells. People with this disorder have some cells with 46 chromosomes and some cells with 47 and their symptoms may be less severe.

This occurs in 2% of all Down syndrome cases. The last type of Down syndrome is called Translocation and occurs when a normal chromosome breaks into two pieces and attaches to another chromosome. This occurs in 3-4% of all Down patients.

Prior to pregnancy, parents can meet with a genetic counselor to determine their risk of passing on a Down syndrome genetic code. Sometimes disorders run in the family, if more than one person has the condition. In other cases, mothers over the age of 35 may have an increased risk for having Down syndrome babies or, in rare instances, environmental factors can play a part.

Some Down syndrome research suggests that smoking while being on birth control can cause the syndrome, although it is debated in some circles. Once pregnant, a woman can go for ultrasound, non-invasive blood tests or undergo amniocentesis for a more accurate assessment.

The severity of Down syndrome varies greatly from person to person. There is not much Down syndrome genetic research on the specific differences between trisomy 21, Translocation and Mosaic syndrome, at present. However, a 1991 report suggested that children with Mosaic syndrome had a mean IQ of 12 points higher than children with typical Down syndrome.

Yet some children with typical Down syndrome still scored higher, which underscores the uniqueness of every child. The Department of Human Genetics at the Medical College of Virginia reported that children with Mosaic syndrome reached their motor milestones earlier than children with typical DS, but speech development was equally delayed in both test groups.

Thursday, April 8, 2010

Toilet Training Children With Down Syndrome by: Jane Orville

Most parents wonder how their children with Down syndrome will learn to become toilet trained. This is understandably an anxious time for a parent, as you might be thinking about sending your child to a preschool program and wonder if he will ever be out of diapers. Teaching any child to use the toilet can be a frustrating time for parents, and the child, but if you relax and remember that you cannot “make” him learn before he is ready, he will leave those diapers behind someday.

One professional suggests taking a few days to document your child’s voiding schedule. Check his diaper every twenty to thirty minutes to see when he is going, and what (urine, bowel movement). When data is taken for a few days and you can see some semblance of a pattern, you will want to schedule toilet times for those specific times of the day.

One suggestion is to give your child some fluids to drink about 15 to 20 minutes before you plan on toileting him. Tell your child he is going to use the toilet, and if needed, use the sign for it and help him make the sign.

Make his toilet training experience pleasant. Have books available for looking at during this time, and keep the toileting time short, about 7 or 8 minutes at the most. If your child does not void during this time, don’t force it or use an unpleasant or frustrated tone. Have him get off and then try again at the next scheduled time.

A lot of praise is necessary when toilet training your child, especially for a child who has Down syndrome. Giving an edible reinforcement might be tried, but this can lead to the child expecting something to eat every time he has success on the toilet. Since children with Down syndrome already may struggle with weight issues, it is recommended that reinforcements such as verbal praise, hugs, high fives be used instead.

Some parents may have expectations for their child in the area of toilet training that are too high. Remember that not only is your child delayed mentally, he also may lack the proper muscle control at the average age that an “average” child is toilet trained. He will eventually learn this too; it will be on his own individual timetable.

Night training may be even further behind the average child’s schedule. Manufacturers are now making disposable underwear (commonly called “pull-ups”) in sizes large enough to accommodate a child up to 125 pounds. This does not mean that your child will be night trained so much later, but he just might not learn until he is that size, and you need to be aware of that fact.

“Megan was a few months older than four when she was toilet trained during the day, and in retrospect, I wish I had relaxed more with her in the preceding years in trying to get her trained. I felt a lot of pressure from other people, but you can’t “make” her learn something until she is ready to learn it. She wasn’t night trained until she was ten and a half. It just happened when it did, and that’s all there is to it,” says Valerie, mother of a 17 year old daughter with Down syndrome.